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Animal Educator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... education and experience; and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position. * 1 year of animal handling or lab animal sanitation equipment ...

PTEA Union Rate Animal Caretaker III (V14) $26.99 Position Summary The Animal Caretaker III ... Required Education and Experience High School/GED or Six or more years of directly related ...

Animal Behaviorist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Education and Experience * Education in animal behavior, animal welfare, psychology, biology, or a related field required; bachelor's degree in a related field strongly preferred. * Experience ...

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Animal Educator information

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$10

$22

$40

How much do animal educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal educator in the United States is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Educator vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal EducatorAnimal Trainer
CredentialsOften requires animal-related certifications or degrees in education or animal scienceTypically requires certifications in specific training methods or animal handling
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, wildlife centers, educational programsDog training centers, pet stores, private training settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, zoos, conservation organizationsPet industry, private clients, animal shelters
Primary FocusEducating the public about animals, conservation, and welfareTraining animals for behavior, obedience, or performance

Animal Educators focus on teaching the public about animals and conservation, often working in educational settings. Animal Trainers specialize in training animals for specific behaviors or performances, primarily working with individual animals or groups in training environments. While both roles involve working with animals, their goals and work settings differ significantly.

How does an Animal Educator typically collaborate with other professionals in zoos or wildlife centers?

Animal Educators often work closely with animal caretakers, veterinarians, and education coordinators to develop engaging and accurate programs for visitors. They may coordinate with animal trainers to safely include live animals in presentations, ensuring both animal welfare and public safety. Regular collaboration with marketing and event teams is also common, especially when planning special events or outreach activities. This teamwork helps ensure that educational content is both scientifically accurate and accessible to diverse audiences.

What are Animal Educators?

Animal Educators are professionals who teach people about animals, their behaviors, habitats, and the importance of conservation. They often work in settings like zoos, aquariums, wildlife centers, or educational institutions, delivering presentations, leading tours, and creating educational materials. Their goal is to inspire curiosity, increase public awareness, and promote responsible attitudes toward wildlife and the environment. Animal Educators may also work with both children and adults, adapting their programs to different audiences.

How to become an animal educator?

To become an animal educator, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field is required, along with experience working with animals. Developing strong communication skills and gaining experience through volunteering or internships at zoos, aquariums, or wildlife centers can also help prepare for this role. Certification or specialized training in animal care or education may enhance job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Educator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Educator, you need a solid understanding of animal science, behavior, and ecology, often supported by a degree in biology, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with educational tools, animal handling protocols, and presentation technologies is typically required. Outstanding communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills help engage diverse audiences and foster a passion for animal conservation. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively educating the public, ensuring animal welfare, and promoting conservation efforts.
More about Animal Educator jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Educator jobs? Cities with the most Animal Educator job openings:
What states have the most Animal Educator jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Educator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animal Educator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,628 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Animal Caretaker

BUFFALO INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Animal Care Technician-Part time 

Part time every other weekend and holiday position with Buffalo Institute for Medical Research, Inc. for Animal Care Technician position not to exceed 15 hours per pay period. Under the supervision of Veterinary Medical Unit (VMU) Manager principal duties include:
  • Responsible for the overall care, safety and well-being of research animals.
  • Feed, water and change a variety of species housed in the Veterinary Medical Unit at VAWNYHS.
  • Assess health status and report any animal abnormality or sickness to the Manager.
  • Dispense medications to a variety of species as instructed by the Manager or Principle Investigator.
  • Cage processing and cleaning of animal rooms and ancillary facilities according to VMU SOP's and the Guide for the Care and Use of Animals in a Research Setting.
  • NYS Licensed Veterinary Technician -Required 
  • AALAS certification at ALAT level or above, or relevant work experience preferred.
Job Type: Part time, every other weekend and holidays, 2 hours per shift with flexible start between 6am-4pm.
Salary: $25.00 per hour
Benefits: Federal Holidays, Vacation and Sick Leave (Pro-rated)
Schedule: Sat and Sunday every other weekend Holidays as needed
Education: Associate (Required)
Experience:
  • Animal handling: 2 years (Required)
  • Animal restraint: 2 years (Required)
  • Animal Research: 2 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
  • NYS Licensed Veterinary Technician (Preferred)
Work Location: In person